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14 WWW.UNWLA.ORG “НАШЕ ЖИТТЯ”, СІЧЕНЬ 2016 ACTIVITIES OF BRANCH 56, NORTH PORT, FLORIDA What stands out about our branch is the fact that it has 95 members, which makes Branch 56 the largest one in the UNWLA. Years ago, a decision was made not to create additional branches, but rather to grow by adding new members to the existing one; this made it easier to continue the organization’s wonderful tradi- tional work with an infusion of new ideas and leadership, which keeps our branch vibrant. Our branch is truly a tapestry where the colorful threads that weave in and out creating beautiful patterns and designs are our devoted and talented members. We all respect, support, and learn from each other regardless of the task in hand. Our var- ied activities and events bring meaning to our lives, laughter to our souls, and yes, at times tears. Though many of us are retired, because of the steady influx of Ukrainians from various states we are flush with new members. The most demanding position in any or- ganization is the president’s, and our very capable Ann-Marie Susla is truly an example of a devoted leader. Her understanding, encouragement, im- mense patience, and, above all, her kind heart keep bringing out the best in our members. The next most challenging post is the Cultural Affairs Representative—occupied by Oksana Lew. On a monthly basis she educates, informs, inspires, and entertains us with programs that we all look forward to. During our spring meeting, Oksana set the mood for Easter with a reflective poem, “Christ Has Risen,” by Leonid Hlibov. Easter traditions were highlighted: Christyna Sheldon spoke about our hahilky and their blend of pagan symbolism with our Christian traditions. Through these sim- ple yet exquisite ritual songs and accompanying dance steps, we joyously welcome the rebirth of spring, and celebrate Christ’s Resurrection. Anoth- er favorite tradition is the writing of pysanky , and Tania Silecky, who is a master of this art form, spoke of their symbolism and great popularity, even with non-Ukrainians. We concluded with our 2nd Vice President Lesia Popel’s beautiful recita- tion of Taras Shevchenko’s poem “On Easter Day.” Our American neighbors are familiar with our Ukrainian community for many reasons. For example, our month-long poignant Easter dis- plays organized by our Art/Museum Representa- tives Katya Steciuk and Tania Silecky are exhibit- ed not only in North Port, but also in Venice, Eng- lewood, and two Sarasota libraries—all thanks to Katya’s vision of expanding this program. Mem- bers who helped in this project are Oksana Lew, Roma Guran, Irena Radzykewycz, Roxolana Yary- movych, Myroslava Futey, and Chrystia Stecyk. We also appreciate the contributions of non- members who shared crafts from their extensive collections and helped with setup, as did Irene Copie and Adrian Lazor. In addition, Tania and Irene have given demonstrations in the art of writing pysanky at the libraries and at the Emeri- tus Assistant Living Community. The feedback is always superlative and the public looks forward to our exhibits every year. In December, Slava Stefa- nyshyn is known for her displays at the North Port Library, for they are always a feast for the eyes. Also at this library, we continue participat- ing in “Christmas in the 1800s” by helping chil- dren create the traditional Ukrainian ornament of a spider on a golden web while telling them the charming background legend. Nadia Belej, who prepared the kits for this activity in the last two years, gets help from other members during the event. Neonillia Lechman and Dr. Vira Bodna- ruk, our Public Relations Representatives, reach out by educating the American community about Ukrainian history and major current events. They fulfill their primary function by constantly keep- ing our legislators abreast of crucial Ukrainian issues through letters and meetings with them. At North Port High School, via lectures with videos, they effectively teach students about the Ukraini- an Holodomor. In Sarasota and Venice, month- long library displays present a variety of informa- tive sources on this tragedy. This work, which has been ongoing for many years, is an indispensable step in bringing this horrendous act of genocide by forced famine into the public arena, exposing Russia’s propaganda in justifying and even deny- ing this historical fact. Our branch also participat- ed in the observance of Earth Day at Oscar Scher- er State Park with the exhibit “Chornobyl Nuclear Disaster.” Our lives are constantly enriched when we help others. Our branch’s generosity and charita- ble work is described in a wonderful article in the July-August issue of Our Life by Halyna Lis- nyczyi. This year, through Lidia Bilous, the UN- WLA’s Social Welfare Chair who heads the War Victims Fund, we adopted a family in Ukraine. Since then Lidia Bilous and Dr. Vira Bodnaruk have each also adopted a family, and we encour- age more members to follow this wonderful ex- ample.
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